In observance of World Health Day 2025, Professor Zulfiqar A. Bhutta, Founding Director of the Institute for Global Health and Development (IGHD) at Aga Khan University and Co-Director of the SickKids Centre for Global Child Health, participated in a high-level international panel discussion hosted by The Heat Show on CGTN America.
Centered around the year's theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures," the panel focused on maternal and newborn health, long-term well-being, and global disparities in care. Dr Bhutta was joined by Dr Allisyn Moran (World Health Organization), Dr Kate Tulenko (Corvus Health), and Dr Anita Raj (Tulane University), in a compelling conversation moderated by Anand Naidoo.
Drawing on decades of research and policy engagement, Dr Bhutta shared insights on global trends in maternal and newborn mortality, calling for a shift from survival-focused strategies to a more comprehensive, life-course approach to women's health. “It is time for the world to shift from simply preventing maternal deaths to ensuring maternal well-being," said Dr Bhutta. “Investments in maternal and newborn health yield powerful returns—not only in lives saved but in the development and prosperity of societies."
The panel also addressed findings from a newly released UN report on maternal mortality trends. While the data reflects significant progress over the past 20 years, the report cautions that challenges such as declining global aid and protracted crises threaten to stall—or even reverse—these gains.
Dr Bhutta emphasized the urgent need for integrated health systems, stronger commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and targeted investments in mental health, postpartum care, and nutrition.
The full interview is available across CGTN America's digital platforms:
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This global dialogue underscores the enduring importance of equity in maternal and child health—particularly in low- and middle-income countries—and the role of research-informed policy in achieving better futures for women and children around the world.
